4 Important Flatbed Trailer Safety Procedures

There is no precise guide for all truck drivers to follow when loading and unloading cargo off or on a flatbed truck. Despite this, a few comprehensive procedures can be followed to make these processes safer. The variety of loads transported on these trucks varies, so every truck driver should understand their own procedures. The following are four important safety measures that should be put in place when loading and unloading flatbed trailers.

Establish your danger zone

Your danger zone will vary by load and load type. The danger zone may encompass about 40 to 50 feet around the truck. You should consider factors such as the size of the cargo and the method to be used when loading and unloading. You should also think about the movement of cargo to or from the flatbed trailer. You must consider what can go wrong and how far away you should be if something does go wrong to establish your danger zone properly.

Never turn your back in the danger zone

Once you have established your danger zone, never turn your back on the unloading or loading process. You should plan ahead and know your escape route if an emergency does happen. Also, be aware of others in the area of the danger zone, as they may impact your safety.

What is the safe zone?

You may wonder what constitutes as a safe zone. This zone is usually the area outside of the danger zone. The safe zone is an area that should be safe if anything goes wrong during the loading or unloading process. However, you should always be prepared for the unexpected, even in a safe zone.

Using a flatbed trailer safety ladder

Establishing your danger zone and safe zone are two important measures every truck driver should take. You must also to willing to expect the unexpected and quickly adjust to issues in order to keep yourself safe. One thing you can do to ensure your safety while climbing on and off your flatbed trailer is installing a flatbed trailer safety ladder. These ladders help reduce the creation of awkward postures that can be created in climbing a trailer. The ladder utilizes the wheels, along with the bumper for support, to help reduce discomfort and injury. One example of this type of safety ladder is the Deckmate Ladder, which hooks onto the rub rails of a flatbed truck to provide sturdy and safe support.

Gateway Supply in Pampa, Texas

Truck drivers and workers that must jump from flatbed and semi trailers, heavy equipment, or vans without proper safety equipment risk bodily injury every day. Fall protection for flatbed trailers is vital for every driver. Finding the best flatbed trailer safety solution can help drivers prevent injuries now and in the future. If you would like more information about trailer safety, contact Gateway Supply, the U.S. distributor of the The Deckmate Ladder, today. You can call us at (806) 440-1126 or Contact Us by email to learn more about our flatbed trailer safety ladders.